Students hold events to raise awareness about human slavery

April 29, 2011—North Central College students will host a series of events on May 6-7 to raise awareness about the realities of human slavery in the world. The campus community is invited to participate.

Throughout the school year, students involved in the Blue Key National Honor Society initiated a human rights project called Project Liberation, which focused on human slavery—especially sex trafficking, forced labor and child soldiers. The May 6-7 events, dubbed “One Peace, One Love,” will culminate this campuswide effort.

The following weekend activities are planned:

Friday, May 6A benefit show, featuring the Chicago-area rock band The Earth Program, will take place at 7:30 p.m. at The Union, 129 W. Benton Ave. The program includes guests who will speak about current issues in social justice. Admission is $3/person; all proceeds benefit Invisible Children, a movement that uses film, creativity and social action to end the use of child soldiers in a rebel war in central Africa and restore affected communities to peace and prosperity.

Saturday, May 7An outdoor advocacy event and cookout is planned from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Jefferson Plaza at Brainard Street and Jefferson Avenue. There will be booths with information on human rights issues and political advocacy in the plaza, as well as field activities and interactive stations for arts and crafts and button-making.

Project Liberation exists through the combined efforts of the Blue Key National Honor Society, International Justice Mission and North Central College’s Leadership, Ethics and Values program.

The Blue Key National Honor Society recognizes upperclass students who demonstrate exemplary leadership, academic, community service and citizenship. Members are active leaders and community contributors and maintain a 3.5 GPA. Blue Key provides a way for these student leaders to continue serving and leading within their campus and community.